Plant scientists from around the world are gathering for a joint meeting of The American Society of Plant Biologists along with the Phycological Society of America at the Hawaiçi Convention Center from tomorrow through Wednesday.

"Plant Biology 2009” is expected to draw an attendance of 2,000 participants — 46 percent from foreign countries — and is expected to generate nearly $9.5 million in statewide revenue. Tax revenue is expected at nearly $1 million and the Convention Center’s hotel partners will benefit with more than 16,000 booked room nights.
This is the second time that the biologists group is meeting in Hawaii. The last was in 2003 and officials said members are “thrilled” to be back.
“Not only has the venue proven to be a big draw for plant scientists around the world – we’re expecting one of our largest meetings ever – everyone in Honolulu is so welcoming, it’s simply a pleasure to be back here,” said Dr. Crispin Taylor, executive director of the American Society of Plant Biologists.
The group is working to be even “greener” than most by by offering carbon offsets with a special calculator, they can determine an attendees C02 emissions by calculating the number of hotel nights, days of ground transportation and where the traveler is coming from.
They then offer attendees of the meeting a chance to buy carbon offsets with the funds being spent towards the installation of solar panels on rooftops spread throughout Hawaii in a partnership with Hawaiçi Energy Connection.